Order of Play Guidelines
We use the Dual Paddle Buckets (also known as Paddle Stacking) approach to organizing play.
As players arrive and the courts are full, waiting players begin
stacking their paddles in one of the two paddle stacking buckets. Early in the session
it doesn't matter which bucket paddles are placed into. However,
players who join after play is well underway should follow the "Joining
mid-session" etiquette below.
After each game, the two winning players will place their paddle at the back of the "Smile Bucket" while the two losing players will place their paddle at the back of the "Frown Bucket".
The bucket that has the Up Next Clip on it should have the four paddles at the front of the bucket pulled for the next foursome that will take the empty court.
The Up Next Clip is then moved to the other bucket such that new games alternate between the two buckets.
Partnering should primarily focus on splitting up the previous partnerships such that maximum mixing takes place (try not to play with the same person a second time). In situations where new partners are not possible, attempt to balance team skill/level such that there is no obviously dominant side.
Games are played to 11 points. At the busiest times, games may only be played to 9 points to increase the speed of turnover. This decision to decrease (or increase) the points will be made by the court organizer and communicated to all when changed. In-progress games would continue to use the point target that was in place when the game started.
The goals of this approach include:
- There is good mixing of players with no intentional grouping based on skill or level
- The amount of play time is balanced/fair with minimal waiting
- It is simple to implement and follow
Bucket Etiquette
All players must respect the following bucket etiquette at all times.
Joining mid-session
If a player arrives after the play session is already underway they should place their paddle at the back of the bucket containing the Up Next Clip. It is considered good etiquette to wait for the current rotation
to finish before joining in.
Respect the Stack
Players should avoid rearranging the paddle stack to favour themselves
or their friends. This disrupts the order and can lead to disputes.
Always respect the order in which paddles were placed.
Know how it works
If a player is unsure about the stacking system or their position in
the rotation, they should ask. Regular players or court organizers are
usually happy to explain the process.
Stay Alert
Especially during busy
sessions, the rotation can move quickly. Players should always keep an
eye on the current game and the paddle
stack to be ready when it’s their turn.
Promptness
When it’s a player’s turn to play, they should promptly move to the
court. Delays can hold up the rotation and reduce playtime for everyone.
Missed Turns
If a player is not
ready/available when it’s their turn, they might have to
wait for the next rotation with their paddle being left in the stack and
the next paddle from the bucket selected. A grace period of a minute
or two is often afforded a player who has stepped out momentarily (ex:
bathroom break) but please don't expect any more than this as it reduces
play time for everyone.
Respect Others
Being attentive to one’s turn is not just about maximizing one’s own
playtime but also about respecting other players’ time. Everyone is
there to enjoy the game, and ensuring a smooth rotation benefits all
participants.
Paddle Identification
Players should
ensure their paddles are easily identifiable. Writing your name or
initials on your paddle face or grip is a best practice as it avoids the
dreaded "Who's paddle is this?" walk that wastes precious playtime.
Taking a break
If a player needs to take
a break or leave, they should remove their paddle from the stack. If
they wish to rejoin later they follow the Join mid-session guidance
above.
Minimize impact on other active games
During court turnover (players leaving the court when finished or entering a court for the next game) it is very important to be aware of how you walk past other courts that have active play underway. Our facilities/gyms have limited space around the courts, especially centre courts, making it quite easy to disturb others. Not only is it frustrating for the active players, it slows play down for everyone.